South Plains College in Levelland and Texas Tech University in Lubbock; Monterey High School in Lubbock.

How has education played a role in your life today?

Since third grade my dream was to be a basketball coach. This would not have happened without a college education.

What was your greatest educational challenge and how did you overcome it?

The first day of genetics class at Tech, the professor announced that only pre-med students would pass, so everyone else should drop the course. I had to really buckle down and focus, but I passed.

What is the value of your education?

I get to do something I love. Everyday I get to work with children who I truly enjoy. I get to work with excellent administrators and teachers.

What would you say to someone who's undecided about continuing their education?

Do you want to earn minimum wage for the rest of your life? I would also tell them you cannot support a family on minimum wage earnings. College may not be for everyone, but get trained to something you enjoy so you can provide for yourself and a family.

When did you make education a priority?

My freshman year of college I knew that if I was going to make it, I would need to focus on academics.

What made you realize the importance of education in your life?

My parents stressed education. College was always the goal.

Did you ever think about quitting? What made you keep going?

Quitting was never an option. I did not want to disappoint my parents.